One morning, as I made my way through Central Park on my route to physical therapy, I couldn't help but take in the beautiful scene unfolding around me. The grass was green, the trees and flowers were in full bloom, children were laughing and playing, people were strolling, and the birds were singing! I felt both a sense of serenity so fortunate to be able to experience such tranquility on what seemed like an ordinary day in my week.
In a world full of potential, how do we tap into the sources of our own joy and contentment? Arthur Brooks, an American author, public speaker, and academic, characterizes happiness as not just a fleeting emotion but a practice, a discipline. It requires daily dedication because the demands of life often pull us away from it.
As we strive towards a happier self I have thought about how it intertwines seamlessly with the practice of intuitive eating, creating a balance between nourishing our bodies and nurturing our souls. Intuitive eating is rooted in the philosophy of listening to our bodies' cues and honoring our instincts when it comes to food choices. It serves as a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness. By fostering a deep connection with our bodies and our needs, we learn to approach food with a sense of joy rather than guilt.
The beauty of intuitive eating lies not only in what we eat but also in how we eat. It permits us to indulge in the simple pleasures of life, such as savoring a sweet treat without guilt or restraint. Maybe you have a simple craving for something sweet? Go for it! After dinner the other night we stopped at a local bakery that was open late- my favorite for cookies and fresh bread. The pleasure of being in the moment and savoring the warm cookies was the perfect end to our evening out. In that moment, nourishing both our bodies and souls, I realized that true happiness resided in the simple act of being present and savoring life's precious moments.
If you find that you want to learn how to feel happier with yourself and your life, feel free to reach out for support. Counseling and therapy can provide valuable tools and strategies for coping with emotions. As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and an Intuitve Eating Counselor, if I can help you to feel better about yourself and make positive changes, feel free to contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com